42 of the Most Creative Halloween Pumpkin Carving Ideas

Pumpkins and Halloween go hand-in-hand. Whether we’re eating them a million different ways (or drinking them via PSLs), or going to the pumpkin patch to find *the* perfect one, they seem to be everywhere this time of year — and we’re not complaining. Think of them as blank canvases waiting for your creative carving idea to be etched into them and then put on display for all to see. Prepare to show your neighbors that you’re serious about pumpkin carving ;) Here are some super unique carving ideas to inspire some seriously creative DIY Halloween decor:

7. Diorama Carved Pumpkin: How brilliant is this graveyard diorama? This approach uses plastic pumpkins and a whole lotta scary props so you can save the mess and store ‘em to use again next year. (via Eat, Knit & DIY)

18. Pup Pumpkins: We’re always looking for excuses to shower our furry family members with love, and this is just the thing for fall. Pay tribute to your four-legged BFF this season with an adorable portrait. (via Better Homes & Gardens)

21. Lantern Carved Pumpkins: These pumpkins give a whole new meaning to jack o’ lanterns. Just like the village pumpkins, the carving shapes are basic. All the details come courtesy of the paint. (via Country Living)

29. Address Pumpkins: This functional and beautiful pumpkin is the perfect combination for your stoop. Contrast it with a different colored pumpkin or stack the numbers for some vertical wow factor. (via Kelly + Tiramisu)

30. Starbucks Pumpkins: PSL season is officially here. Let your neighbors know how much you love them with this carving. (via She Knows)

37. Intricately Carved Pumpkin: It’s hard to get more Halloween-chic than a pumpkin carved with an intricate, whimsical design. Pair with a few gold-painted pumpkins for the ultimate pumpkinscape. (via The Blue Brick)

38. Geometric Carved Pumpkins: Looking for a geometric, modern spin on the age-old jack-o’-lantern? Take this as inspiration and go monotone or use a couple of different colors for extra fun. (via Family Circle)